Functional Rhinoplasty Surgery

Nasal Shape and Function

Rhinoplasty can be performed to address a number of concerns with your nasal shape and function. These include a general dissatisfaction with the appearance of your nose - a nose that does not ‘fit the face’ whether due to genetics, injury or disease can greatly affect your overall appearance and self-confidence. Rhinoplasty can also be used to correct particular breathing problems which may be pre-existing or have resulted from trauma. Rhinoplasty is usually performed with Septoplasty (straightening or reshaping of the central cartilage and bony internal framework of the nose).

It may even be necessary to address your sinuses during rhinoplasty (Endoscopic Sinus Surgery). Both form and function must be addressed to achieve an aesthetically pleasing and functional nose. Dr Imani's extensive training in both Facial Plastic Surgery and Otorhinolaryngology (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery) makes him one of only a few specialists in Perth expert enough to deal with rhinoplasty surgery. Dr Imani has spent many years specialising in addressing all aspects of nasal surgery, and he has a particular interest in rhinoplasty - an area known to be the most challenging in facial plastic surgery. Nasal surgery requires attention to detail and precision in execution, making it a highly specialised field.

Dr Imani strives for a natural appearance in performing all his facial procedures. A conservative approach is the key to his success using time-tested techniques to help avoid complications and an unnatural look. Many changes are achievable with a carefully selected rhinoplasty approach. The nose can be made smaller or larger and the shape, size and relation of the tip can be changed.

Dr Imani's rhinoplasty philosophy emphasizes strong nasal support to ensure a predictable long-term outcome. Rhinoplasty is difficult because every nose is different and the anatomy varies from patient to patient. As the anatomy varies so must the techniques used for correction. Dr Imani performs a precise and complete nasal analysis to spot all of the aesthetic and functional deformities. He then formulates a surgical plan that is conceived to correct the specific deformities.

Dr Imani does not have a standard aesthetic goal in nasal reshaping. He considers the person’s age, racial origins, height, and most importantly their desires about their looks before formulating a surgical plan.

Click here to contact IMANI Facial Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Specialists for a consultation for your nose rhinoplasty surgery in Perth or see below for more information about the following:

Dr Imani utilises techniques, which preserve the nasal structure with minimal excision of supporting tissues. Excessive removal of supporting structures results in an operated look that frequently exhibits a pinched, upturned tip, with nasal obstruction. These problems can be avoided through the use of specialized operative techniques.

Dr Imani considers nasal function to be as important as the aesthetic outcome. Dr Imani will not compromise nasal function to give a patient a smaller nose. In fact, most of his patients breathe better after surgery and have improved nasal function over the long term. Even if the patient denies nasal obstruction, Dr Imani will maximize the nasal airway to avoid nasal obstruction as they age. There is no need to compromise nasal function for a better-looking nose. All patients presenting with nasal obstruction undergo special nasal function testing to determine the degree of nasal obstruction and the improvements gained after surgery.

Dr Imani believes that a nose should be in harmony with the other facial structures. In patients with a weak chin, chin augmentation is important to help balance the nose with the weak chin. The cheeks play an important role in nasal aesthetics, often a full cheek or malar eminence hides the length of an over projected large nose. In patients with small, underdeveloped or aging cheeks, dermal fillers or surgical cheek augmentation with implants will produce amazing results when combined with rhinoplasty.

In patients who have had a rhinoplasty performed years ago, revision rhinoplasty may be required if for example, the cosmetic portion of the procedure compromised the functional portion causing a secondary breathing problem. These patients must undergo construction of a new supporting structure that will provide the proper shape. Performing such major reconstructions requires an accurate understanding of three-dimensional nasal contours. When a patient undergoes rhinoplasty, scar tissue develops which may complicate subsequent reconstructions. There is tremendous variability in revision rhinoplasty deformities and some patients have problems that are much more difficult to correct. Dr Imani's highly specialised training allows him to deal with complex revision rhinoplasty surgery.

How do I plan surgery?

At the initial consultation, you will be discussing the features of your nose that you are unhappy with. Dr Imani will examine you and then discuss the improvements that he feels are realistically achievable. Photographs of your face are taken and analysed. Whilst you may find it useful to bring photographs of a nose/face that you like and you will be able to view results of previous patients of Dr Imani's, bear in mind that it is not possible to exactly replicate a face or nose. The proportions of your tissues (cartilage, bone, skin) and the rest of your face are unique and will always be a little bit different to anyone else.

Dr Imani will also discuss with you the steps involved with the procedure and the possible risks involved. Our staff will provide you with an idea of the costs and information to read on the surgery. You may be able to claim a portion of the cost of your surgery from Medicare and your private health fund. This is particularly likely to be true if you have breathing problems related to your nose or if you have a history of trauma to your nose or a birth defect. Dr Imani will usually see you a second time prior to any surgery.

If you live outside the Perth metro area, please contact the office in advance so that the relevant information is sent to you ahead of time. You will be more fully informed at the first consultation and any delays before surgery can be reduced.

Are there risks involved?

Yes. There are risks involved in all medical procedures. Dr Imani will gladly discuss and disclose all possible risks, benefits and alternatives involved at the time of consultation. Our practice staff will provide you with procedure specific information sheets after your consultation.

Preparation for your surgery

Please read the preoperative information sheets provided to you two weeks before surgery. You should avoid all herbal preparations, Vitamin E, Fish oil, Aspirin, Nurofen and similar non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs for two weeks before surgery. Dr Imani will discuss your usual medication intake at the time of preoperative consultation.

Anaesthesia:

General anaesthesia or local anaesthetic with sedation.

In/Outpatient:

Inpatient short stay or outpatient/same day.

Length of Surgery:

2-5 hours.

After Surgery:

You may experience a dull headache and a congested feeling inside your nose in the first 24 hours after surgery. Simple painkillers will be supplied and should be enough to control your pain. You should rest quietly with your head elevated with two to three pillows, and pillows on either side of your head so that you do not roll over onto your face. You should do this for seven days. You should use the nasal sprays as prescribed for you after your discharge. It is important to clear your nostrils with hydrogen peroxide (3%) and apply the antibiotic ointment supplied regularly. Swelling and bruising under the eyes is not uncommon but resolves within one week. It is normal to feel congested and even down and depressed for a few days after surgery. The splint on your nose will be removed seven days after surgery. Avoid blowing your nose forcefully for approximately six weeks however with the aid of your nasal sprays, you may blow out of your nose gently.

Pain Score:

Minimal pain, relieved with simple pain killer.

Nasal Packing:

Dr Imani almost never uses a pack inside the nose, so you can breathe through your nose when you wake up from your anaesthetic or sedation.

You will be able to see the improved shape of your nose immediately after the splint is removed, however you will not see the long-term results for quite some months. Small degrees of swelling persist for three to six months and subtle changes in the shape of the cartilage and shrinkage of the skin can take up to a year. If there is something about your nose that alarms you, feel free to inform Dr Imani and his staff. It may just be a passing phase, as much of the reshaping of the nose continues to occur in the months after surgery. A few of our patients (1-3%) may require a second touch up procedure. This is usually performed a year after surgery when the tissues have settled and are much easier to work with.